[A] Microwaving meat for a minute before grilling helps cut down on heterocyclic amines (HAs), compounds created when foods cook over a flame. Some studies suggest too many HAs may fuel the growth of cancer. FYI: Drinking beer may limit HAs’ damage.

[B] In addition to adding a bit of a bite to your meat, the acetic acid in vinegar prevents blood-sugar spikes after a meal, helping keep your energy level on an even keel.

[C] Brown rice and sesame seeds are both excellent sources of manganese, a mineral your body craves for energy production and top-flight control of your brain and central nervous system.

[D] Besides counting toward the five cups of veggies you need daily, leafy greens are a good source of fiber and lutein, a nutrient essential for healthy eyes. Studies show that adding more to your diet may repair vision loss as you get older.

[E] Almonds are bursting with the alpha-tocopherol form of vitamin E, a nutrient that sacrifices itself for the health of your cells. Of the eight types of vitamin E available, the alpha-tocopherol in food is the best: Your body absorbs it twice as well as its synthetic counterpart.